Alnus cordata | Italian Alder
The Alnus cordata is a fast-growing, pyramidal tree native to southern Italy. This is a hardy tree, tolerant of exposure to strong winds, urban pollution and compacted soil, making it a good choice for industrial and derelict sites. The Alnus cordata is also useful in coastal areas and makes a good windbreak. This strong tree has large, glossy, dark green and heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges. The leaves remain on the tree well into winter, often as late as December. Long, pendulous, yellow and brown catkins appear in groups, February to April, before the leaves. Following pollination, the female catkins develop into small dark brown cones that remain on the tree throughout winter, after small-winged seeds have been dispersed. Male catkins are 10cm long. The Alnus cordata is a very versatile tree suitable for a wide range of locations from parks to riverbeds and derelict industrial sites. This tree is also a favourite for wildlife because it is an early pollinator suited to riverbeds and wetlands.